Itinerary

1. DUBAI

   Upon arrival in the United Arab Emirates, transfer from the Dubai airport to your hotel for check-in and enjoy the balance of the day at leisure in this fascinating city.

2. DUBAI

   After breakfast you will start your tour of Dubai. Begin your discovery of Dubai in the Bastakyia district. At the Dubai Museum situated in the Al-Fahidi fortress, learn about the city’s past as a small fishing village. Cross the Dubai Creek on board a water taxi to Deira to shop for exotic spices and unique souvenirs. In Jumeirah, approach the awe-inspiring Grand Mosque, built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, and see two of the city’s most iconic hotels -- Burj Al Arab and Atlantis. Then look up at Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower and the centerpiece of the region’s prestigious urban development that encompasses residential and commercial real estate, hotels, entertainment, and the world’s largest shopping mall. Upon your return to Dubai, enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Dubai Creek on a traditional Arabian dhow, and savor a sumptuous feast of Arabic and international cuisine. (B,D)

3. DUBAI

   Enjoy the afternoon traveling across the deserts of Dubai in a 4x4 vehicle. This exciting dune drive has many photo stops, but the highlight of this trip to the Arabian Desert may well be the pristine sunset. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Arabian barbeque dinner featuring professional dancers that will demonstrate the ancient art belly dancing before returning to your hotel. (B,D)

4. DUBAI I ABU DHABI I DUBAI

   Today you will tour the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. Visit the intricately decorated Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque that can accommodate 30,000 worshipers and is one of the largest mosques in the world. In downtown Abu Dhabi, stop at the Heritage Village, which houses a small museum and depicts Arab life prior to the discovery of oil. After lunch, drive to the tip of the breakwater for a superb view of the skyline. Next, you will tour Saadiyat Island where the Louvre Museum and the Guggenheim Museum annexes are being constructed. Finally on Yas Island, see Formula 1 racing on the Formula Yas 3000 circuit and explore Ferrari World, the first Ferrari-branded amusement park in the world. Overnight in Dubai. (B,L)

5. DUBAI I EAST COAST I DUBAI

   The terrain changes from deserts to mountains as you set out for the eastern coast of the UAE. On the shore, you will visit the old village of Dibba, once a strategically important settlement that offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Continue to Al Badiya Mosque, the oldest mosque in the country, constructed in the 17th century. After lunch, discover the port town of Khor Fakkan, the 300-year-old Fort of Fujairah, and the fortress of nearby Bithnah Citadel before returning to Dubai. (B,L)

6. DUBAI

   Take time to share in the splendors of Dubai with a full day at leisure to relax or discover the city on your own. (B)

7. DUBAI I AL AIN I DUBAI

   Today you will head out towards the Eastern Emirates and Al Ain, situated in opulent terrain and dotted with abundant underground water springs. The former seat of the Sheikhs, here you will find a wealth of desert culture in this formerly vital trading center, including an 18th century bazaar, a camel race track, and a livestock market. Visit the Al Ain National Museum and Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum before ascending Jebel Hafeet. At the base of the mountain, soak in the healing hot springs so abundant in this area. After lunch you will return to the glamorous city of Dubai. (B,L)

8. DUBAI TO USA (OR EXTEND YOUR STAY)

   Transfer to Dubai airport for your departure flight home. (B)